FIBA denies allowing Crimean clubs to join Russian league

(QHA) -

Reports that the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) have allowed Crimean basketball clubs to join the Russian league following the peninsula's unification with Russia last year have been denied by the world governing body.

"FIBA is aware of the political turmoil affecting the regions of Crimea and Sevastopol and the possible consequence on basketball competitions in these regions," a spokesman told Insidethegames.

"We are in contact with both National Basketball Federations of Ukraine and Russia and encourage them to jointly reach a satisfactory solution to ensure that basketball is least affected by the political situation.

"FIBA can confirm that no decision has been taken at this stage but we will make sure to communicate any progress in this matter."

To recall, last June, FIBA Europe, the European branch of the world body, stripped Ukraine of hosting duties for the 2015 EuroBasket competition after ruling that the political situation and security issues meant that Ukraine were no longer feasible hosts.

The ongoing conflict in the region has also affected other sports, with UEFA ruling that Russian and Ukrainian football clubs are not permitted to meet in their continental club competitions until further notice.